Several challenges can complicate catalyst selection:
1. Deactivation: Catalysts can lose activity over time due to poisoning, sintering, or fouling. 2. Scale-Up: A catalyst that works well in the lab might not perform as expected in industrial-scale reactors. 3. Complex Reaction Networks: In multi-step processes, a catalyst must be carefully selected to optimize each step without compromising the overall efficiency. 4. Environmental Regulations: Stringent environmental regulations may limit the use of certain catalysts or require costly waste management solutions.
